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Description

The Yamaha YC-20 is a classic combo organ that brings the vintage charm of the 1960s into the modern era. Known for its distinctive sound and intuitive design, the YC-20 offers an authentic playing experience for musicians who cherish the warmth and character of old-school organs. With 61 keys and a dual manual layout, this organ provides a versatile platform for both studio sessions and live performances.

The YC-20 is equipped with a variety of tone settings that allow you to customize your sound. Its easy-to-use controls include preset buttons and a pitch slider, granting you the flexibility to explore different musical styles. Built with the performing musician in mind, it features a rugged design and durable components that withstand the demands of gigging.

This organ is perfect for those who appreciate the nostalgia of classic rock, jazz, and R&B, yet seek reliable, modern functionality. Its simple interface makes it accessible to players of all skill levels, while its unique tonal qualities continue to inspire creativity.

Key Features:

  • 61 keys with dual manual layout
  • Authentic vintage organ sounds
  • Intuitive interface with preset buttons and pitch slider
  • Durable construction for live performances
  • Versatile tone settings for multiple genres
  • Perfect for studio and stage use
Christoph Manuel Jansen

Christoph Manuel Jansen

Schweineorgel Yamaha YC 20

Video thumbnail for Schweineorgel Yamaha YC 20 by Christoph Manuel Jansen

Schweineorgel Yamaha YC 20

Christoph Manuel Jansen

Christoph Manuel Jansen

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Electone YC 20 demo by Doug Organ

Yamaha Electone YC 20 demo

Doug Organ

Doug Organ

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA YC-20 test[organ69] by organ69

YAMAHA YC-20 test[organ69]

organ69

organ69

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YC-20 Organ sound demo by Ata Akdağ

Yamaha YC-20 Organ sound demo

Ata Akdağ

Ata Akdağ

Video thumbnail for Yamaha YC-20 Organ - Logan String Orchestra (Improvisation) by Ata Akdağ

Yamaha YC-20 Organ - Logan String Orchestra (Improvisation)

Ata Akdağ

Ata Akdağ

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha YC-20.

Use cases and applications

  • The YC-20 is favored for garage rock due to its distinct analog sound, but it may be limiting for expanding sound palettes in new wave music.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Yamaha YC-30, a similar model, is noted for its versatility and features like the Fuzz tab, though it may sound too clean without it.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Yamaha YC-20's analog organ sound is distinct, yet some owners find it lacks the versatility of modern digital synthesizers for varied sound exploration.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite cosmetic wear, such as wood scratches, the YC-20 remains functional and is valued for its vintage sound experience.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sly Stone uses Yamaha YC-20

Sly Stone

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Sly & the Family Stone

...
Source: Photo

In this photo, Sly Stone can be seen playing a red Yamaha YC-20 combo organ at a show with Sly and the Family Stone.

See how Robbie Chater uses Yamaha YC-20

Robbie Chater

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Avalanches

...
Source: Soundonsound

Keyboards

Casio PT30 electronic keyboard. Clavia Nord Micro Modular synth. Farfisa organ. Korg MS2000 synth. Lowry upright pedal organ. Moog Minimoog synth. Roland PC160, PC160A and PC200 MkII controller keyboards. Roland SH1000 and SH2000 synths. Yamaha Electone A505, YC20, YC30 and YC50 organs. Samplers Akai MPC2000XL percussion sampler with MFC42 filter. Akai S900, S2000 and S5000 samplers.

See how Jasper van ’t Hof uses Yamaha YC-20

Jasper van ’t Hof

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Pork Pie

...
Source: Discogs

According to the album credits on Discogs, Jasper van ’t Hof is confirmed to have played a Yamaha YC-20. This is evidenced by the credit: "Electric Organ [Yamaha YC-20] – Jasper Van't Hof" on the release titled Association P.C. – In A Life Machine. Live 1972.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha YC-20, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
Siren Pedal by Rob Lowry
Siren Pedal by Rob Lowry Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Roland SH-1000
Roland SH-1000 Synthesizers
1
Yamaha DGX-505
Yamaha DGX-505 Digital Pianos
1
Akai MPC 2000XL
Akai MPC 2000XL Production & Groove
1

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